Janak Raj Khatiwada

Research and Conservation Officer/M.Sc., Himalayan Research and Conservation Nepal

Research: Frogs diversity and its role as a biological pest control agent in the rice fields of Chitwan, Nepal

Species/Topic: Amphibians

Abstract: Nepal harbors high frog diversity which is found both on forest and agricultural landscape. Rice fields of Nepal are one of the important habitats for frogs. They are key bio-indicators of environment and play a significant role in ecosystem functioning. However, increasing land use change, habitat fragmentation and extensive use of pesticides are posing serious threats to the survival of frogs. The project aims to document the richness and diversity of frogs in the rice fields of Chitwan, assess their role as a potential biological insect pest control agent and effect of pesticides on frog population. The work will be carried out by systematic searches for frogs along nocturnal transects (250x4 m); diet analysis and questionnaire survey. This study will be beneficial to farmers and conservation biologist, to identify the potential role of frog on pest control agent and effect of pesticides on diversity and richness of frog.